When to Use a Standard Metric Socket Set

Most of the world converted to the metric system years ago. The United States is the only country left that still uses traditional measurements, including measurements for tools, as a primary system of measurement. Although the U.K. still uses them in common conversation, it uses the metric socket set in factories where it makes most of its automobiles for the global market.

When Working on a European- or Asian-Made Car

Cars manufactured in Europe are made using international standard metric measured bolts and fasteners. Unless a car has had a bolt replaced in servicing while in the United States such as in air conditioner, fuel or water pump replacement, the bolts installed at the factory should be of standard metric measurements and should require the use of a standard metric socket set.

If You Can't Quite Get The Socket to Fit

If you are using a U.S. Imperial standard socket set and find that one socket is too small but the next socket is too large, it is likely that you are working with a metric standard bolt. If this is the case, find a metric socket that fits the bolt and either loosen or tighten the bolt, depending on what you are trying to accomplish.

If the Socket Fits Loosely but Rounds Off Bolt Corners

In some cases, a U.S. Imperial standard socket will appear to fit but will slip and round off bolt or nut corners. If this happens, the bolt is probably a metric standard size and will require a metric standard socket. It is important to switch to a metric standard socket and not to continue to use the incorrectly sized socket as it could continue rounding off the bolt corners, making the bolt difficult or impossible to remove with any standard socket set.

References

• Metric System Usage

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